Just ahead of Round 23, Sydney midfielder Kieren Jack, 32, announced his retirement. Hailing from rugby background, he was invited to play Australian football for his school at the age of 11. He was drafted by the Swans as a rookie in 2005 and soon emerged as one of the elite midfielders in the AFL. He was appointed co-captain alongside fellow retiree Jarrad McVeigh in 2013. In Round 5 this year, Jack became just the ninth Swan to play 250 games.
Swans coach John Longmire said Jack left his mark at Sydney, “Kieren Jack’s story as a trailblazer for the code in this state cannot be underestimated. It would be reasonable to say that Kieren’s journey has done as much for the code’s development ... as any person ... “He leaves the game ... highly respected inside and outside the code ...the kid ... had a few doubters when he first turned up at the end of 2005 ... what couldn’t immediately be seen was the incredible determination ... and the amazing mix of speed and endurance ... Kieren’s thirst for hard work was insatiable. He soaked up every bit of help ... and turned himself into one of the most elite two-way runners of his generation. A fierce competitor, he took on the best players the game ... and ... made himself one of the game’s best ... Kieren has passed on his knowledge and invested heavily in our younger players, his legacy at this club will be long lasting.”
KIEREN JACK
GAMES: 248
GOALS: 166 (through Round 23)
Swans Rising Star Award 2008
Bob Skilton Medal (club best and fairest) 2010
International Rules side 2010 AND 2014
AFL premiership 2012
Sydney Swans co-captain 2013-2016
Source: Jordan Laing, Sydney Media Release
Article last changed on Thursday, August 29, 2019 - 1:04 PM EDT
